One player heavily linked to the player is Swedish attacking midfielder Niclas Eliasson. Johnson wouldn't be drawn on individual names but he did confirm that there were bids on the table.

Gustav Engvall of Bristol City celebrates after scoring the opening goal for his side (Image: Paul Roberts/JMP)

"There are a couple that we've got bids in for. I won't lie to you. We're trying very hard," said Johnson on possible new recuits.

Pushed on what stage the deals were at, he confirmed that it was about finding an agreement with the other clubs.

"It's negotiations in progress, isn't it? We're trying to add to the squad but sometimes you have to take a view that we don't need to add to the squad.

Joe Morell of Bristol City battles with Jerell Sellers of Cheltenham Town

"Last year it was difficult managing the group because of the number of players we'd sold the dream to. I knew - and I said that at the end of last season if you remember - there are some young players that will come through at this club and if we just go signing players and blocking their path it'll kill 'em," explained Johnson.

"You see tonight that some of them are ready. I'm telling you... To play Championship football. The key is to bring them into the right side.

"If you blood them all together sometimes it can kill people. But if you blood them in a good side then the confidence can build and they get the gravitas of coming through."

Gustav Engvall of Bristol City battles with Nigel Atangana of Cheltenham Town (Image: Paul Roberts/JMP)